International Underwater Environment Recognition for Visovac Island

International recognition for the island of Visovac in the Krka National Park this week as it was awarded a ‘White Flag’ by the Global UnderWater Awareness Association (GUWAA)…

The White Flag, a symbol of the purity of the river bottom, and the protection and preservation of life in the river Krka, was raised on Visovac this week, making it the first island in Croatia to earn the white flag for the excellent care of the underwater environment of the island.

It is the second White Flag in the area however, with the first raised three years ago nearby in Skradin. White Flag, in partnership with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and GUWAA, was created in order to protect all life in the water as well as life above the surface, all of which is dependent on this precious natural resource.

(photo credit: GUWAA)

Because of the centuries-long devotion to the Mother of God, Visovac is also called Mother of God Island. Visovac was settled by Augustinian monks, who established a small monastery and church dedicated to the Apostle Paul in the 14th century. The oldest preserved part of the complex is from the 14th century.

A number of businesses in Croatia already have been awarded White Flags, including Croatia Airlines, hotel Bellevue in Mali Lošinj, hotel Crvena luka in Biograd na Moru, Zlatni rat beach in Bol on the island of Brač, two beaches in Brela, hotel Split in Podstrana, Blitz Cinestar cinema and Vern.